Combating discrimination: Community action programme 2001-2006

The committee adopted the report (consultation procedure) by Michael CASHMAN (PES, UK) approving, with a number of amendments, the proposal for a Council decision establishing a Community action programme to combat discrimination (2001-2006). The committee sought to widen the scope of the programme by introducing amendments designed to link it to the application of Article 13 of the Treaty (measures to combat all forms of discrimination) and guarantee equal treatment for all. One amendment stipulated, for example, that harassment would thus be deemed to be a form of discrimination. The Commission's proposal was also amended to include measures to prevent, not just combat, discrimination. Lastly, the Commission was asked to publish an annual report on the implementation of the objectives and priorities of the programme. �